Cate happened to see Silvana (Sil) some 6 years ago at a scone making event.

Over a huge spread complete with jam and cream for a multitude of guests, Sil, in her CWA capacity, was talking (as usual!) about scones and Cate spent most of her evening scoffing as many as she could.

Two years later their paths would cross again at another scone event – this time via Zoom during the Covid Lockdown of 2020 where on either side of the screen Cate and Sil, unknowingly, baked scones, ‘together’.

However, they would not actually lock eyes over a scone until a third event, run by The Mindful Maker Sydney where they finally met in 2024 – face-to-face – over, you guessed it, more scones!

This shared love of home baking is what has brought them together for a series of workshops.

"We’re passionate and experienced creators with a shared love of home baking, talking about home baking and indulging in anything wholesomely home-baked.

Now here at CateBakes, as a ‘double-act’ we’re excited to be collaborating with one another, presenting a nurturing, supportive space for learning, creativity, connection – and sharing – as a community.".

An experienced workshop facilitator in the area of family education, Cate has baked all her life for an appreciative crowd of family and friends.

In 2019, keen to take her skills further, Cate graduated from BakeClub’s ‘Make Me a Baker’ program founded by Anneka Manning, who saw in her a true gift, passion and enthusiasm for baking. As the founder of CateBakes, baking for every day and for special days too, Cate is creating food that is loved "whether it is a meal for comfort or celebration, it is a privilege to bake for others.".

Cate can’t wait to welcome you to her retail kitchen space to share her knowledge and enthusiasm with you.

Silvana Griffin is a baking and crafting powerhouse who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience as The Mindful Maker Sydney. Sil has been an avid home baker and preserver for decades and as a member of the CWA (Country Women’s Association) she has been awarded numerous blue ribbons in baking, preserving and handicraft across branch, group and State levels over the last 12 years.

Keen to encourage others to discover the joys of the handmade and share her knowhow, Sil will help demystify revered time-honoured skills, answer your questions and set you on your way to making, baking and preserving with confidence.